What is the primary goal of Maintenance of Traffic (MOT)?

The primary goal of Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) is to ensure the safe movement of vehicles and pedestrians. This focus on safety is essential because road work, detours, and changing traffic patterns can create hazards for both drivers and pedestrians. By implementing effective MOT strategies, such as proper signage, barriers, and guidance for detours, agencies can protect road users from accidents and mishaps that might arise due to construction or maintenance activities.

Safety measures go beyond just protecting users from immediate dangers; they also promote public confidence in using roadways during construction activities. When drivers and pedestrians feel safe navigating through or around work zones, it minimizes disruptions and accidents. This overarching goal of safety anchors all MOT practices and decisions, prioritizing it above other considerations such as cost efficiency or traffic flow enhancements.

In contrast, while minimizing construction costs, increasing traffic flow efficiency, and enhancing scenic views are all important factors in roadway management and urban planning, they do not take precedence over the critical need to protect the safety of all road users during maintenance and construction activities.